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Our democracy is powered by active and engaged voters. Voting is how we can make a difference, and it’s one of the most important rights we have as U.S. citizens. Yet, here in New York, our outdated election laws make it far too difficult to take this crucial first step on the path to lifelong civic engagement. It’s time for our lawmakers in Albany to join the people of New York in fighting for increased access to the ballot box.

Voters need flexibility, and one way we can provide that is through early voting. New York is only one of 13 states that does not offer early voting, which would also ease and reduce long lines on Election Day.

Voter registration needs to be streamlined through measures like the Voter Empowerment Act, which calls for automatically registering eligible citizens, updating their information when they move within the state, and pre-registering sixteen and seventeen year olds.

And in response to the gutting of key parts of the Voting Rights Act, we should take the lead in adopting essential voting rights protections for all New Yorkers.

But if we’re going to make a difference, we need your voice in this fight, too! Our democracy is strongest when all of us are heard. Join us in supporting the following legislation by signing our petition and asking your state representatives to take down barriers to voting in New York.

Specifically, we call on you to support the following legislation:

Early voting, S7400 and A9608. New Yorkers should have an 8-day period, including Saturdays and Sundays, to ease long lines on Election Day and give voters flexibility as they juggle work and family obligations.

Voter Empowerment Act, S3304 and A2278, to ensure every eligible citizen is registered to vote and make it easier to update their voting information.

New York Votes Acts, A5312, which would provide for automatic and same day registration, early voting, and no-excuse absentee voting, as well as additional protection for voters.

Preclearance, S6164 and A5925, ensures that no citizen is denied their right to vote based on race or minority status. It requires counties with populations with at least 10 percent of any racial, ethnic, or language minority group to get approval from the New York State Attorney General before making any changes to the voting process, such as changing poll site locations or purging the voter list.